Celebrating its 75th birthday next year, Glen Gorse Golf Club not only has three quarters of a century’s worth of history and tradition to be proud of but a magnificent golf course to go with it.

Located a few miles south east of Leicester the club has a fascinating history set either side of the Second World War. A gentleman by the name of Ernest White first purchased the 72 acre site in order to turn it from Woodside Farm into his very own golf course. In a staggering three months a 9hole course was constructed and within a year Glen Gorse Golf Club held its first official competition and appointed resident Professional Jack Loach.

The club received an overwhelming interest from local golfers who assumed Glen Gorse as their own within the first year. One of the members, Tom Pollard recorded the first ever Hole-in-One that year too – not bad for a club yet to celebrate its first birthday!

By 1939 a further plot of land was purchased and the course doubled in size. Unfortunately with the outbreak of war the extension was only enjoyed for a short time, as the land was more useful for farming. Six years later the course was restored to its former glory and has become regarded a classic amongst Leicestershire golf courses.

The clubhouse
Built in 1868 the farmhouse was a little rough around the edges when White first purchased it in 1933 but after some clever renovation it was soon made into the fine clubhouse we see today. The atmosphere is second to none inside and with regular competitions, a fine selection of ales and exquisite culinary delights emanating from the kitchen, many of the members regard the club as a second home.

Dominic Fitzpatrick is the club’s resident PGA Professional and a visit to Glen Gorse wouldn’t be right without a snoop around his well-stocked shop before treading the fairways. Limber up at the practice range and have a putt and a chip on the adjoining putting green before stepping on to the first tee would be Dominic’s advice and be sure to buy a course map too!

The course
Easing your way in with a sub 500 yard par 5 is always a nice way to start and with a gentle dogleg right and pear-shaped green to finish let’s hope your game doesn’t go the same way!
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